Non UK Vero beach osprey Florida (end of November)

[russellsnr]

Hi, So going to Florida late November for 10 days and after some searching Vero beach area seems to be a bit of a hot spot for Osprey but it is quite large area so looking for any information as to where best to photograph Osprey, I see a guy called Mark Smith seems to like this area but like most YouTubers doesn't say exactly where unless you pay about $2000 for a two day guided experience, yes $2000 so I've seen. Thanks in advance for any information, Russ.

 

[Fordsabroad]

Where about in Florida are you going? Ospreys are quite common all over. I visit Davenport regularly and there is a place called the circle b bar reserve in Lakeland (Google it). You will see plenty of ospreys there along with a multitude of other birds, alligators etc. It is totally free.

 

[nc_killie]

Russ
Most of the ospreys will have gone from Florida by then. In the summer they are 10 a penny nesting within a few feet of major highways. You should reach out to the local Audubon chapter to where you are going. Americans are delighted to help. Enjoy your trip!

 

[mav]

Sebastian inlet just north of Vero beach is the hot spot for ospreys have a look at mark smith on you tube that’s where he gets a lot of footage, found a post on fb a guy saw 2 dozen there November time .
Blue cypress Lake is a hot spot you need to hire a boat I think
Whereabouts are you going , they are everywhere really we saw them every day back in may

 

[russellsnr]

Hi, yes by looking at Mark Smiths I worked out an approximate area then did some more research, I am getting advice that the Osprey are not at Sebastian Inlet in great numbers in November but I really only need to get the one good image I hope. I am staying in a place called Plantation at my brothers house going to arrange a hotel one night at the Sebastian area, I do have list of places that people have recommended but don't think will have time for all but can try. Loxahatchee National Wildlife Refuge only 40 minutes from house, Maybe Merritt island,
Twin Oaks Conservation Area, Everglades National Park apparently Nov/Dec best time there,
Plantation Preserve, Wakodahatchee Wetlands,
Green Cay Wetlands and Nature Center, Tall Cypress Natural Area and Big Cypress National Preserve.
Just looking forward to photographing birds I have never seen and probably never again.
Russ.


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[whyone]

I have spent a good deal of time photographing birds in Tigertail lagoon, at the northern end of Marco Island over the years (though never in November). It's about 1/2 mile walk from the public parking lot and there are opportunities both in the lagoon and on the Gulf-side beach.

If you are happy to wade about in somewhat murky water and get bitten by insects, it is a great place!